weight loss program

The two most widely used GLP-1 medications are Semaglutide (ex. Ozempic and Wegovy) and Tirzepatide (ex. Zepbound and Monjaro).  These medications work by mimicking gut hormones to suppress appetite, slow digestion, and increase satiety.  They deliver significant weight loss (15-20%+), improve blood sugar/ A1c, and reduce cardiovascular risks (blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart attacks, and strokes).

Like all medications GLP-1 medications have the ability to be misused and abused.  This abuse has been perpetuated by new online entities and telemedicine membership plans.  They profit through insane mark-ups, life-changing promises, and celebrity endorsements.  The mass prescribing of these medications with little to no oversight has created numerous "side effects" to include "Ozempic face", pancreatitis, kidney failure, severe gastrointestinal distress, and thyroid C-cell tumors.

GLP-1 receptor agonists target receptors in the brain to reduce hunger, increase feelings of fullness, and decrease cravings.  This therefore slows gut motility and can cause: nausea, vomiting, constipation, fatigue, dizziness, and headache.

All FDA approved medications (including generics) have passed rigorous safety standards.  Proper prescribing methods, oversight, and multiphasic approaches to treating diseases will always decrease side-effect risks.  With that said here are tips to reduce side-effects: 

1. Avoid high fat, fried, dairy-rich, or sugary foods - these take longer to digest.

2. Eat smaller portions - this will reduce those "stuffed" nauseous feelings.

3. Increase hydration - this will prevent dehydration, dizziness, headaches, and constipation.

4. Start low and go slow - your weight loss goal should be 5-10lbs per month.

1. First and foremost we care.  My staff, partners, and I live in the community and want to make it as healthy and vibrant as possible.  

2. We are a Family Medicine Clinic that happens to offer weight loss options, not the other way around.  This means I answer to the Hippocratic Oath and have many options (not just medications alone) to help you succeed.

3. By joining us you join a team of professionals that includes: 

Wolf Wellness & 24/7 Fitness which offers heath coaching, gym memberships, red-light therapy, and Physical/ Occupational Therapy. 

Katie Brisbee, MS, RDN (registered dietitian) specializing in food relationships, sports performance, chronic illness, Alpha-Gal Syndrome, diabetes nutrition, and GLP-1 weight loss.

Unfortunately most GLP-1 medications are not, unless you have diabetes or your insurance covers weight loss drugs.  Please reach out to your insurance carrier directly.